Hamas reportedly holds leadership vote at critical moment for militant group

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Julian Borger in JerusalemFebruary 20, 2026 at 07:09 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Hamas is reportedly holding leadership elections as the organization faces critical decisions about its future and potential peace in Gaza. Members in Gaza, the West Bank, Israeli prisons, and the diaspora are voting for delegates to the Shura council, which will select a new politburo and interim leader. The new leader will determine Hamas's cooperation with peace plans, disarmament, and demands from Israel. This comes after significant losses within Hamas leadership due to Israeli military actions, including the deaths of Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, Saleh al-Arouri, and Ismail Haniyeh. Key contenders for leadership are Khalil al-Hayya, representing a hardline stance, and Khaled Meshaal, viewed as more flexible, presenting a choice for Hamas's future direction.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Doha ×230% United States ×240% Ismail Haniyeh 40% West Bank 40% Saleh al-Arouri 50% Mohammed Deif 50% Khalil al-Hayya ×260% Yahya Sinwar ×260% Khaled Meshaal ×370% Israel ×475% Gaza Strip ×580% Hamas ×895%

Keywords

hamas leadership election 100% palestinian militant movement 80% gaza 70% israel 70% peace plan 60% political future 60% khaled meshaal 50% military campaign 40%